Microsoft analyzing Vista BIOS hacks

Ever since Vista launched, efforts have been underway to disable the OS's product authentication and verification schemes. One of the popular methods for bypassing Vista product activation is the use of BIOS emulation tools to fool Vista into thinking it has been preloaded onto an OEM system. This can be done either via software tools or through direct modification of a motherboard's BIOS. Now Microsoft has confirmed it is examining both methods and looking for ways to close these latest
loopholes.

"We focus on hacks that pose threats to our customers, partners and products," writes Alex Koc, whose a program manager for Windows Genuine Advantage. "It's worth noting we also prioritize our responses, because not every attempt deserves the same level of response. Our goal isn't to stop every "mad scientist" that's on a mission to hack Windows. Our first goal is to disrupt the business model of organized counterfeiters and protect users from becoming unknowing victims."

It'll be interesting whether or not these methods make a dramatic difference in Vista's illegal distribution. Given the speed with which today's manual hack can become tomorrow's scripted install, I wouldn't say Microsoft has exactly won the battle yet, and there are plenty of doubts that the war itself can even be won.